THERE was a surprise today as the Liberal Democrats announced that a former West Country district councillor and town mayor would be contesting the vacancy on Fenland District Council. Ann Elliot moved to March a year ago to be nearer to her family in Ca

THERE was a surprise today as the Liberal Democrats announced that a former West Country district councillor and town mayor would be contesting the vacancy on Fenland District Council.

Ann Elliott moved to March a year ago to be nearer to her family in Cambridge and is also an experienced local government official.

"I decided to stand because March deserves much better from its district council," she said.

"Clearly democracy is non existent in a council where 38 out of 40 councillors belong to the same party. I know things can change and quickly because of my own experience in Wiltshire where I was a county, district and town councillor.

"People wanted change and they went out and voted for it."

It means that, ironically, only the ruling Conservative group will be fielding a novice candidate. Their nominee, Steve Count, is entering politics for the first time after being selected to contest the March West seat held by the late Councillor Peter Skoulding.

Labour's choice is veteran campaigner Martin Field, 44, a Neale Wade teacher who has lived and worked in the Fens for 16 years. He has previously served on Fenland District Council, rising to vice chairman of the council and chairman of the leisure services board.

The last date for getting a name on the Electoral Register in time for the October by election is September 23.

That's also the last date for people wanting a postal vote. Anyone wanting either should contact FDC's Electoral Services team on 01354 654321 to get the necessary forms.